Izakaya Guide for Foreigners: How to Eat and Drink in Japan (2025)
Izakayas (居酒屋) are Japanese gastropubs — casual, noisy, smoky, and central to Japanese social and work culture. Learning how to navigate one is essential for anyone living or working in Japan. What Is an Izakaya? An izakaya sits between a bar and a restaurant. You order food and drinks simultaneously throughout the evening — it’s not a dinner followed by drinks, it’s both at once, continuously. Sit-down format — usually floor cushions (座敷) or tables and chairs Small shared dishes — like tapas; order many and share Drinking is expected — but non-drinkers are accommodated Evening-only — most open 5pm or 6pm, close midnight or later Types of Izakaya Type Description Price Range Chain izakaya Torikizoku, Watami, Shirokiya ¥2,000–4,000/person Independent (個人経営) Neighborhood spots, often better food ¥3,000–6,000/person Specialty izakaya Yakitori-ya, seafood, regional cuisine ¥3,000–8,000/person Standing bar (立ち飲み) No seats, cheaper, quick drinks ¥1,000–2,500/person How to Enter and Get Seated Wait at the entrance — a staff member will seat you (don’t seat yourself) Say the number in your party: “二人 (futari)” = 2 people, “三人 (san-nin)” = 3, etc. Smoking preference may be asked — 禁煙 (kin-en) = non-smoking You may be handed a warm towel (おしぼり, oshibori) — use it to clean your hands The First Order: Drinks and Otoshi First drinks: The server will ask almost immediately: “お飲み物はお決まりですか？” (What would you like to drink?) ...